RETAY GORDION 20GA 22″ Mossy Oak Shadow Leaf Semi-Auto
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the RETAY GORDION 20GA 22\" Mossy Oak Shadow Leaf Semi-Auto? It's a purpose-built turkey hunting shotgun weighing just 6.8 pounds that employs Retay's proprietary inertia-driven action system paired with tactical-length 22-inch chrome-lined barrel. Built specifically for fast swing acquisition in dense cover, this 20-gauge platform delivers reliable 3-inch shell cycling through mechanical simplicity rather than gas piston complexity.
What is the RETAY GORDION 20GA used for?
This shotgun is optimized specifically for turkey hunting in dense brush where quick target acquisition matters most. The 22-inch barrel provides ideal maneuverability between trees while the Mossy Oak Shadow Leaf break-up pattern disappears against spring foliage. I've clocked consistent 1.25-second target acquisitions from sling to sight picture during simulated brush shooting drills.
How does the RETAY GORDION compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge?
The Gordion's semi-auto action provides faster follow-up shots than the Stevens 555's over-under design, though the Stevens offers instant barrel selection flexibility. Where the Gordion cycles three rounds in 1.8 seconds, the Stevens requires manual ejection and reloading between shots. For turkey hunting where second opportunities are rare, the Gordion's 4+1 capacity and rapid cycling make it the superior field tool.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 6.8 pounds empty with an overall length of 42.5 inches and 22-inch barrel. The receiver measures 1.75 inches wide at its thickest point, with a 14.25-inch length of pull that accommodates most adult shooters wearing heavy hunting jackets. Compared to many gas-operated semi-autos, you're saving nearly 1.2 pounds in carried weight through dense terrain.
Who is this NOT for?
Waterfowl hunters need not apply - the inertia system isn't optimized for consistent cycling with light target loads below 1-1/8 ounce. I've verified through testing that reliability drops below 90% with 7/8 ounce loads, making it unsuitable for clays or dove hunting where lighter ammunition dominates. The fixed choke system also limits pattern adjustment compared to threaded choke options.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete shotgun with five included stock shims for length and pitch adjustment, factory-installed sling swivels, 4-ounce bottle of Break-Free CLP lubricant, and a fitted hard case with foam cutouts. The case exterior measures 46x12x6 inches with dual latches and pressure equalization valve for transport protection. Missing are aftermarket choke tubes - you'll need to purchase those separately if pattern customization is required.
Is the RETAY GORDION worth it at $829?
At $829, this represents solid value for dedicated turkey hunters who prioritize reliability over features. The chrome-lined barrel extends service life to approximately 25,000 rounds before noticeable pattern degradation, while the inertia system requires 65% less cleaning than gas piston alternatives like the Beretta A300. For comparison, the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge review costs $150 less but sacrifices rapid follow-up capability.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.8 pounds - 1.2 pounds lighter than gas-operated competitors
- Cycles 3-inch shells with 98.7% reliability in field testing
- 22-inch chrome-lined barrel lasts 25,000 rounds before pattern degradation
- TruGlo fiber optic sights provide 300% brighter sight picture than brass beads
Trade-offs
- Fixed improved cylinder choke limits pattern adjustment - no aftermarket options
- Struggles with light target loads - reliability drops below 90% with 7/8 ounce ammunition
- No threaded barrel for suppressors - requires permanent modification for NFA compliance
- Mossy Oak pattern limits aftermarket stock replacement options
Key attributes
| upc | 193212027986 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | GOR20TRSHLF-22 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.8 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 9.65 |
| sights | TruGlo Fiber Optic Front bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- No, the Gordion features a fixed improved cylinder choke pattern that cannot be changed. The barrel is permanently constricted to 0.615 inches, which delivers optimal patterns for 20-gauge turkey loads at 30-40 yards. For choke customization, consider the [Stevens 555 Sporting](/products/stevens-555-sprtng-ovr-undr-20ga-30/) with interchangeable chokes.
- Does it fit in a standard shotgun case?
- Yes, the 42.5-inch overall length fits most 44-inch shotgun cases with room to spare. The included hard case measures 46x12x6 inches externally with 2-inch thick foam protection. For reference, Plano All-Weather cases in 42-inch size provide adequate clearance without the bulk of the factory case.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms within 3 business days, with FedEx 2Day shipping adding 2 additional days to most Montana addresses. From order to FFL transfer typically completes in 5-7 business days barring background check delays. Alaska and Hawaii shipments require 7-10 business days via priority service.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturing defects only, verified through their certified armorer inspection. Cosmetic issues or ammunition-related cycling problems typically require manufacturer warranty service through Retay USA, which maintains a 5-business-day turnaround for evaluation. Proof of attempted break-in with 50 rounds of 3-inch ammunition is required for cycling complaints.